The doctor will perform a physical examination to search for potential explanations for the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Because many symptoms of mesothelioma can also indicate other diseases, all possibilities must be considered. Unless a definite diagnosis can be made, further tests are likely to be ordered.
Diagnostic Tests for Mesothelioma
If mesothelioma is suspected, the physician will want to confirm that the disease is present, where it is located, determine the type and size of the cancer, and determine whether or not the disease has spread. There are several tests available to help answer these questions.
Imaging Tests
Chest X-ray: This is typically the first imaging test your doctor will order. It is usually not the sole determinant of a proper prognosis, and so additional tests may be ordered.
CT Scan: Sometimes referred to as a CAT scan, this is similar to an X-ray but produces multiple images that are then assimilated by a computer to allow viewing of the tissue in greater detail. Patients receiving a CT scan are sometimes injected with a dye that will create greater contrast, thus providing greater detail.
PET Scan: Cancerous cells use and absorb sugars differently than healthy cells. This allows a PET scan to be an efficient method of detecting them. Patients are given an injection of glucose and then a scanner is used to identify any cells that are absorbing the glucose abnormally.
MRI: An MRI creates highly detailed images in three dimensions that allow a trained radiologist to identify any suspicious areas. This procedure uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce the images.
Tissue and Fluid Tests
It is normal for a doctor to perform a biopsy of the suspicious area. This involves retrieving a sample of the tissue or fluid and then testing the sample for cancerous cells. There are four main types of biopsies that a doctor may choose to order.
Fine Needle Aspiration: Mesothelioma typically leads to a build-up of fluids in the area afflicted, such as the mesothelium, or lining, in the chest cavity. To perform a fine needle aspiration, the doctor uses an extremely thin, long needle to extract a fluid sample.
Thoracoscopy: If the doctor wishes to confirm or eliminate pericardial or pleural mesothelioma, a thoracoscopy might be ordered. This involves a tiny incision in the chest wall in order to obtain a tissue sample.
Laparoscopy or Bronchoscopy: These two procedures are conducted on different areas of the body. A bronchoscopy may be ordered to check the airway and trachea. A laparoscopy involves the removal of a sample of the tissue from the peritoneal area.
Mediastinoscopy: This test is used to examine the lymph nodes located in the neck and chest to see if the cancer has spread from its initial site.
Diagnosis Codes for Mesothelioma
Standardized codes have been assigned to the various types of mesothelioma. Patients may not regularly encounter these codes, however, it is helpful to have them available should the doctor refer to them or a patient encounter them while performing research.
•ICD-9 code 163: Pleural mesothelioma
•ICD-9 code 158: Peritoneal mesothelioma
•ICD-9 code 164: Pericardial mesothelioma
After Mesothelioma is Confirmed
A primary care physician will likely refer the patient to an oncologist, or a doctor who specializes in cancer, who has experience treating mesothelioma. The oncologist can help determine which treatment options are best for each case. Patients are also encouraged to perform their own research, providing education on the various options available in order to better discuss them with the physician. Patients are also advised to locate any available sources of support during this difficult time.
No comments:
Post a Comment